Coconut oil is valued worldwide for its health, beauty and healing properties. The coconut is even considered a divine plant in Ayurvedic medicine. Generations of folk remedies have recommended the use of coconut oil to treat a wide variety of illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, flu, gingivitis, skin conditions and even sexually transmitted diseases.
Cardiovascular Health
Despite being high in saturated fat, coconut oil can prevent or lower the risk of heart disease by raising HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol, according to researchers at Harvard Medical School.
Weight Loss
The fats in coconut oil are called medium chain triglycerides (MCT) which are easily digested due to their small size. Unlike most other fats, the MCT in coconut oil are not stored in the body's fat deposits, but are used as an energy source. Coconut oil's thermogenic properties help boost energy, stimulate metabolism and burn calories at a significantly faster rate.
Skin
Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer. It can soothe irritated skin, improve complexions and heal wounds. Apply a thin layer of oil to your face and neck and leave overnight for best results. Coconut oil will also heal chapped lips.
Hair
Deep conditioning your hair with coconut oil will leave it soft and shiny and can help eliminate flaking and dandruff when massaged into the scalp. Combing a very small amount of coconut oil through wet hair will make it more manageable.
Infections
Antifungal and antibacterial properties of coconut oil can help prevent and fight infections when used internally or topically. A study conducted at the Philippine Children's Medical Center concluded that virgin coconut oil was helpful in the treatment of pneumonia in children.
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